Downey Brand Welcomes Max Thiele to the Firm’s Environmental and Natural Resources Team

April 15, 2026


Downey Brand is pleased to welcome Max Thiele to its Environmental and Natural Resources practice in Sacramento.

Max advises clients on a broad range of environmental and natural resource matters, with a focus on regulatory compliance and litigation. He represents clients ranging from small, family-owned businesses to large public agencies, helping them navigate complex state and local regulatory frameworks, including those administered by the State Water Resources Control Board, the California Air Resources Board, and regional air quality management districts.

Building on his experience supporting litigation and regulatory matters involving water resources, air quality, land use, and environmental review, Max brings a practical, business-informed perspective to complex environmental issues.

Max earned his J.D. from Chapman University, Dale E. Fowler School of Law, where he was a member of the Alternative Dispute Resolution team and competed in national negotiation competitions. He received his B.A. in business administration from Whittier College, where he also served as captain of the NCAA Division III lacrosse team.